Greater South Side Apartments for Rent

A piece of paradise in the heart of the city, Gray’s Lake Park forms the north boundary of the Greater South Side neighborhood. Gray’s Lake is the place to meet in the metro to enjoy year-round outdoor recreation. In addition to swimming, boating, and other activities, Gray’s Lake boasts a well-maintained two-mile trail looping around the lake complete with emergency phones and efficient lighting.

Water for the 100-acre lake comes from the nearby Raccoon River. The main entrance for Gray’s Lake Park opens on Fleur Drive, the west border for the neighborhood. Fleur Drive serves as the main connection between downtown Des Moines and the Des Moines International Airport. Air travelers visiting the city get a first-hand look at the Greater South Side as ground transportation merges into Fleur Drive to access major arterials like Interstate 235, Interstate 35, and Interstate 80.

Located on the east boundary on 9th Street, Lincoln High School is one of the city’s five public high schools and one of the largest in the state. The Railsplitter teams and Lincoln High School is known as the “Pride of the South Side.” Many historical treasures are part of the school’s collection, including an engraving of the National Monument in Washington DC dedicated at President Lincoln’s famous Gettysburg Address.

The Greater South Side neighborhood is represented by two groups — Gray’s Lake Neighborhood Association and Watrous South Neighborhood Association. Watrous Avenue divides the area.